Microbiology

Qualified and experienced medical and technical personnel staff the department.

This guide gives information on how to use the Clinical Microbiology Department, a separate guide is provided on the rational use of Antimicrobials; see also the Trust Infection Control Policies. It is important that all medical and nursing staff familiarise themselves with these guidelines, to optimise use of these services.

The department is subject to external accreditation by CPA (Clinical Pathology Accreditation [UK] Ltd.) to ISO15189.

The department participates in a comprehensive quality management system, participating in all relevant National Quality Assessment Schemes, and operates a schedule of internal audits, corrective action and quality improvement.

The laboratory is recognised for training by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences.

All work is performed with due care for the health and safety of staff and visitors and with proper regard for the environment. The laboratory complies with comprehensive safety procedures and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.

Advice on the microbiological investigation of patients with infection, and their treatment, can be obtained from the Clinical Microbiologists who provide a 24-hour service. To seek advice from the Clinical Microbiologists, relevant telephone numbers are listed below.